Fix USB Ports Not Working on Mac [with Bonus Tips]

It might be annoying when MacBook owners encounter issues with their USB ports, causing some connectors to malfunction. The problem typically happens when a user relies on a port for tasks like data transfer, attaching accessories, or charging gadgets. USB ports are one of the most significant elements of a Mac, so their issue can interrupt several crucial hours of work.

Your USB ports might not be working due to various reasons, including software problems, out-of-date drivers, hardware malfunctions, or even just bare dirt and debris obstructing the connection. In this article, we provide you with workable fixes for this issue. Continue reading to fix your USB ports not working on Mac issues and avoid more problems.

Method 1. Restart Your Mac to Solve the USB Ports Not Working on your Mac

Often, a straightforward yet efficient fix for USB port problems is to restart your Mac. Restarting the system may resolve momentary software issues or faults and cause your USB ports to stop working. This method helps refresh your system, clear out minor errors, and reinitialize hardware connections. Let's guide you through the steps to restart your Mac correctly:

Step 1. Access the Apple menu, which can be found at the top-left corner of your screen.

Step 2. Select the "Restart" option.

Alternatively, you can press and hold the power button to shut down your MacBook and turn it on again.

Method 2. Reset the SMC to Fix the Mac USB Ports Not Working

Resetting the System Management Controller (SMC) can often resolve issues when USB ports are not working on your Mac. The SMC controls various hardware functions, including USB ports, and resetting it can clear out corruption or conflicts that may be causing the problem. Let's guide you through the steps to reset the SMC on your Mac:

Step 1. Power off your Mac completely and ensure it is plugged into a power source.

Step 2. Press and hold the "left Shift, Control, and Option" keys simultaneously for 7 seconds.

Step 3. While still holding those keys, press and hold the Power button.

Step 4. Continue this for another 7 seconds.

Step 5. Release all keys. Finally, restart your Mac to complete the SMC reset process.

Do remember to share this post with users in need of solving this USB error on Mac:

Method 3. Reset the NVRAM to Solve the USB Ports Not Working on the Mac

Resetting the NVRAM can solve the problem of USB ports not working on Mac. The NVRAM stores settings that include graphic resolution, startup disk, and other hardware specifications, such as USB ports. The settings can be reset to factory default settings to ensure proper working.

Follow the guide below to reset the NVRAM on your Mac:

Step 1. Power off your Mac completely.

Step 2. After turning the device ON, press and hold the "Option, Command, P, and R" keys simultaneously for about 20 seconds.

Step 3. Release the keys after 20 seconds. Your MacBook will restart, indicating that the NVRAM has been reset.

Method 4. Reset USB Ports on Mac to Troubleshoot USB Ports Not Working Mac

Are your Mac's USB ports not working correctly? Worry no more! You can try resetting them as a troubleshooting method. USB ports may stop working due to various hardware or software problems over time. Resetting them can clear out minor glitches and restore their functionality. Here are the steps to reset and get your USB ports working again.

Step 1. Power off your Mac and unplug all hardware adapters.

Step 2. After waiting a few minutes, restart your Mac to help re-enable the disabled USB ports.

Resetting USB ports on a Mac can resolve issues where your Mac doesn't recognize hardware. This process clears residual power and resets the USB controller. If problems persist, you can perform a USB repair on your MacBook.

Step 1. Open Terminal by going to "Applications > Utilities > Terminal."

Step 2. Paste the following command: "sudo kextunload IOUSBMassStorageClass.text" This command temporarily disables the USB port.

Step 3. Press "Enter" and authenticate with your administrator password if prompted.

Step 4. Wait a few seconds for the command to execute, then close the Terminal. Test your USB port to see if the issue is resolved.

Bonus Tips: What if You Have Lost Data in Your USB on a Mac

The best recommendation for Mac users who lost data from a USB drive is the reliable EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard for Mac. This software is famous for its 99.7 percent recovery rate when restoring essential data. It can recover files that were deleted accidentally, formatted wrongly, contained viruses, or crashed.

Furthermore, this Mac hard drive data recovery software can help in faster data retrieval, especially regarding critical working documents, images and videos from special moments, and other vital data. EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard for Mac provides coverage across the board by covering file formats and storage media.

Key Features:

• It is effective when you have lost files and folders by accidental deletion due to formatting errors on your PC or system crashes.
• Able to recover files such as Word/docs, photos, video, and other files in other formats from USB drives.
• Can retrieve data from USB on Mac such as flash drives and external hard drives.
• Ensures a high success rate with advanced scanning algorithms and reliable recovery techniques from USB drives.

Is this information helpful? Share it with your friends on social media to assist them with USB data recovery on Mac!

Final Words

In conclusion, this article has provided comprehensive solutions to address USB port issues on Mac, from basic troubleshooting steps like restarting and resetting the SMC to advanced techniques like using recovery software for data retrieval. Remember, maintaining updated software and periodically cleaning ports can prevent future problems.

If you've lost data, EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard for Mac is a dependable option with a high success rate and user-friendly interface. Download it if necessary to recover valuable files from your USB devices quickly and effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries of people related to this issue:

1. How do I enable USB ports on my Mac?

Restart your Mac, disconnect or connect USB accessories again, or reset the System Management Controller (SMC) using specific critical combinations during startup to enable USB ports. These steps can often resolve connectivity issues.

2. Why is my Mac not recognizing USB-C ports?

If your Mac isn't recognizing USB-C ports, check the cable for damage and ensure that it is securely connected. Verify compatibility between your MacBook Pro and the peripheral device to ensure seamless operation.

3. How do I fix an unreadable USB on my Mac?

Check power and cable connections to fix an unreadable USB, ensuring the device is powered on and cables are securely attached. Update firmware and software to maintain compatibility with your Mac for smoother data access and functionality.